Anderson Children's Foundation

La Quinta Middle School

La Quinta Middle School

Project Lead (2018-2019)

The Student Leadership Project will develop student leaders who will then organize and implement a variety of programs designed to improve students' academic success, health and wellness, self-esteem,career/college readiness and environmental awareness. The program is intended to reach the diverse population of all La Quinta Middle School students.

Some of the programs will include an ongoing health and fitness awareness/promotion program. Numerous activities will be run, such as: 2K Runs, Health and Fitness Fair, Wellness Wednesdays, Fitness Fridays, lunch time activities, and after school activities.

Additional programs include guest speakers and student made multimedia presentations on character development with special emphasis on anti bullying and cyber safety.

Guest speakers and special assemblies will further present topics on career/college readiness. Presentations will include professionals from local health facilities, law enforcement, fire departments, universities, business enterprises, etc.

Finally, this project will specifically run a year long campaign to educate students on the harmful effects of plastic pollution to our planet and will undertake the schoolwide campaign to reduce plastic consumption.

This project not only introduces and educates middle school students on these vital life necessitites, but teaches approximately 40 students how to be authentic leaders and inspire others to become better well-rounded students and community members.

This project was designed because LQMS is fortunate to have a remarkably gifted and motivated group of young students who deeply desire to improve their community, at school and their city. Currently, there is no program that can truly provide the basis to meet the caliber of this group's desire.

The community benefit will be better, well-rounded community members who will continue to inspire and influence others as they grow.Truly, these students are future leaders of the Coachella Valley and beyond.

Goals for use of ACF Funds:

40 Students trained in leadership, goal setting, multimedia presentations, research, health and wellness, environmental issues, and character building

700 students will run/participate in two schoolwide 2K runs

700 students will participate in health and fitness festival

700 students will participate in Wellness Wednesday and Fitness Friday events and activities

700 students will attend guest speaker presentations on career/college, character building, and environmental issues